The Reverend Dr. Doris Nathaniel Benford Sr., renowned for his extraordinary 72-year service at the Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church in Texas City, has passed away at the age of 94.
Reverend D. N. Benford Sr., affectionately known for his unwavering dedication to his congregation, breathed his last on April 15, as announced by the church on Facebook. “It is with saddened hearts that we announce the homegoing of our beloved pastor, father, grandfather, and so many other wonderful things to us,” the statement read. “He has fought a long hard fight for the Lord, and He has called him home to be with Him!”
The church held a heartfelt homegoing service for Reverend Benford on Saturday morning to honor his remarkable legacy.
Reverend Benford’s extraordinary tenure was officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records in October 2022, acknowledging him for the “Longest tenure as pastor of the same church.” With an unbroken service spanning 72 years and 61 days, Reverend Benford held a place of unparalleled commitment within his community.
His journey in ministry began at the tender age of 14, delivering his inaugural sermon on December 25, 1944. The genesis of his tenure at Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church traces back to 1947 when, during a visit to Texas City, he filled in for an ailing friend, Reverend FM Johnson. Impressed by his preaching, the congregation expressed a desire for Reverend Benford to return if the need ever arose. True to their word, in 1950, Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church extended an invitation for him to preach once more, culminating in his appointment as pastor on August 27, 1950.
On Easter Sunday of 2024, Reverend Benford delivered his final sermon within the hallowed walls of the church sanctuary, marking the end of an era. “It’s just unbelievable,” remarked his daughter Mokysha Benford. “He’s lived a beautiful life.”
Throughout his extensive ministry, Reverend Benford left an indelible mark on his community through his outreach efforts and dedication to youth empowerment. His daughter, Yolanda Proctor, fondly recalls his initiative to encourage community engagement, including urging citizens to exercise their right to vote through the use of megaphones attached to his van.
Moreover, Reverend Benford’s commitment to aiding the less fortunate was exemplified through his provision of food, clothing, and support to those in need. He often organized family events and field trips, personally driving the church bus to ensure families and children could partake in enriching experiences.
His children remember him as a role model who instilled strong values, providing a solid foundation for their endeavors. Thomas Benford, his son and a distinguished graduate of Rice University and Harvard Business School, credits his father and mother for shaping his life.
In honor of his enduring legacy, the pulpit chair that he occupied will remain covered for a period of 30 days, serving as a poignant tribute to Reverend Doris Nathaniel Benford Sr.’s unwavering dedication to his faith and community.
